For those seeking their next period drama fix, a standalone series spanning six 'inspiring' episodes could be precisely what they are looking for. The British television drama, The Crimson Field, first aired on the BBC in 2014 and, despite never receiving a second series, continues to attract new audiences who are quick to champion its qualities.
A Hidden Gem of British Television
The show has viewers 'hooked' as they follow the lives of various medical staff and patients navigating the harrowing circumstances of the First World War. Set within a fictional field hospital in France at the height of the conflict, it captures the spirit of the period while breathing life into the stories and individuals behind this momentous historical event.
For many, it is the ensemble cast that truly drives the series, featuring a blend of fresh and recognisable faces delivering some 'remarkable' performances. The cast includes Rupert Graves as Major Edward Crecy, alongside Oona Chaplin as Kitty Trevelyan, Hermione Norris as Grace Carter, Suranne Jones as Sister Joan Livesey and Kevin Doyle as Lt Col Roland Brett.
Critical Acclaim and Fan Comparisons
One reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes wrote: "I rate The Crimson Field with 'Call the Midwife' and 'Downton Abbey.' It is British drama at its best with a fantastic cast of those some of you may remember from other shows. However, there is no stereotype in their roles from previous shows. Truly remarkable acting."
Another reviewer on IMDb said: "Within the first minutes of watching this series I knew that I was hooked. It gives an honest representation of life in the war hospitals of Northern France during the First World War. While many depictions of wartime focus on the absolute patriotism of those involved, this series shows that lines do get blurred when individual, real people are involved."
They went on to note it shares "a lot in common" with Downton Abbey, exploring similar themes in a "unique" manner. The reviewer explained: "Where D.A. explores the realities of hierarchy in early 20th-century British society, The Crimson Field does the same with the ranking within the army and hospital camps."
Behind the Scenes and Cancellation
Despite creator Sarah Phelps reportedly having four additional series planned, the programme was axed after a single series owing to disappointing viewing figures and budget constraints. Writer Sarah Phelps has penned more than 90 episodes of EastEnders, alongside many BBC adaptations, including Great Expectations and Oliver Twist. Phelps turned to social media to confirm the programme's cancellation, admitting she was "gutted". She stated: "Gutted doesn't even touch the sides of how I feel".
Period drama fanatics can watch all six episodes of The Crimson Field, streaming now on Amazon Prime.
